You're At Home With Heather ~ Shreveport's Real Estate Blog

How to Avoid Becoming a Victim During the 2010 US Census

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 17:37:12 -0500

For years, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has educated consumers about not giving out personal information over the telephone or to anyone who shows up at their front door. With the US Census process beginning, the BBB advises people to be cooperative but cautious so as not to become a victim of fraud or identity theft.

The first phase of the 2010 US Census is under way, as workers have begun verifying addresses of households across the country. Eventually, more than 140,000 US Census workers will count every person in the United States and will gather information about every person living at each address, including name, age, gender, race and other relevant data. "Most people are rightfully cautious and won't give out personal information to unsolicited phone callers or visitors; however, the census is an exception to the rule," said Andy Fisher, BBB Shreveport. "Unfortunately, scammers know that the public is more willing to share personal data when taking part in the census, and they have an opportunity to ply their trade by posing as a government employee and soliciting sensitive financial information."

The census data will be used to allocate more than $300 billion in federal funds every year as well as determine a state's number of congressional representatives. Households are actually required by law to respond to the Census Bureau's request for information. During the US. Census, households will be contacted by mail, telephone or visited by a US Census worker who will inquire " about the number of people living in the house. Unfortunately, people may also be contacted by scammers, who impersonate census workers to get access to banking and financial information.

Law enforcement in several states have issued warnings that scammers are already posing as Census Bureau employees and knocking on doors asking for donations and Social Security numbers. The big question is, how do you tell the difference between a US Census worker and a con artist? The BBB offers the following advice: If a US Census worker knocks on your door, he will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see his identification and badge before answering his questions. However, you should never invite anyone you don't know into your home.

Census workers are currently only knocking on doors to verify address information. Do not give your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the US Census. Census workers will not ask for banking and financial information, nor will they solicit donations.

Eventually, census workers may contact you by phone, mail or in-person at home. However, they will not contact you by email, so be on the lookout for email scams impersonating the census. Never click on a link or open any attachments in an email that is supposedly from the US Census Bureau. For more advice on avoiding identity theft and fraud, visit the Better Business Bureau.

Permission to reprint by: "The Forum Newsweekly" Article taken from June 3, 2009 issue, page 10

217 Ixworth Avenue, The Village at Tiburon in Bossier City, Louisiana

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 13:37:20 -0500

217 Ixworth Avenue

The Village at Tiburon

Bossier City, Louisiana

I just listed this home in the north Bossier gated neighborhood, The Village at Tiburon. It's located just north of I-220 off Swan Lake Road.

The home, which was built in 2007 by Hunter Black looks like new. It has been gently lived in and has upgrades not found in other homes in the neighborhood.

There are 3 bedrooms, the master with a tray ceiling, and another bedroom with a vaulted ceiling. Plantation shutters grace all the windows. Both the master bath and hall bath have double sinks in the vanities. Of course, the master bathroom has a whirpool tub and separate shower.

Ten foot ceilings give the living area a spacious feeling while the gas start fireplace keeps things cozy. The entry, living, laundry, halls, bathrooms and kitchen have tiled flooring. Each bedroom has like-new carpet.

The kitchen is perhaps the masterpiece of this home with dark stained cabinets, granite counters, tumbled tile backsplash, and a granite topped island. The island and breakfast bar have pendant lighting. There is also a spacious breakfast area overlooking the backyard.

The asking price, $210,000, is one of the best in the neighborhood. Enjoy the photos:

Louisiana Tax Deduction for 2009 School Expenses

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 10:27:29 -0500

Okay. I guess this post doesn't really qualify as real estate news, but y'all know that I like to keep you informed, real estate-related or not. Besides, this one could be said to be indirectly related to real estate since those of us who own homes pay property taxes which go to support our school systems. But hey. Do I need an excuse to spread the news about something that might have a positive impact on your wallet...? I thought not.

Although many of you have probably already heard about this, it's news to me. I've just discovered that during the second special session of Louisiana's legislature last year, a bill was passed to allow parents to deduct certain school expenses from their taxes beginning in 2009.

Parents of public school students can deduct the cost of school uniforms and supplies. Home school parents can deduct the cost of educational materials, and parents who send their children to private or parochial schools can deduct tuition, supplies, and certain other expenses. The deduction can be taken on the 2009 tax return which is filed in 2010, so be sure you're keeping track of these expenses with receipts. For more details, go here.

Shreveport's Mudbug Madness is Here!

Wed, 20 May 2009 22:36:55 -0500

Tomorrow, Thursday, May 21st is the beginning of a weekend of good food, good music, and great fun as Shreveport’s favorite spring festival, Mudbug Madness, gets under way.

Mudbug Madness is back for its 26th year! Begun in 1984 as a two-day street festival in downtown Shreveport, it's now one of Louisiana’s largest and most popular Cajun festivals, featuring reknown Cajun, Zydeco, Blues and Jazz artists, mouth-watering Cajun cuisine, raucous contests, and fun for all ages. Now a four-day festival held each Memorial Day weekend, Mudbug Madness has created renewed interest in Louisiana’s cultural heritage and has brought a little bit of south Louisiana fun north to Shreveport.

Performers at this year's festival include:

On the Madness Stage

Fricasse Cajun Band
Leon Chavis & the Zydeco Flames
Wayne Toups & ZydeCajun
Chris Miller & Bayou Roots
Curley Taylor & Zydeco Trouble
Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band
Bayou Crossing
T-Richard & the Zydeco Stingrays
Cajun Nation
Rockin' Dopsie, Jr. & the Zydeco Twisters
Don Fontenot & Friends
Red River Playboys
Trent LeJeune & Doubletime
Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience

On the Swamp Stage

The Gnarley Brothers
LA Outlaws
Earshot Graffiti
Dirtfoot
Sterling Bryant & Rockhouse
The Blues Brokers
Boomerang
Crossroads
Louisiana's LeRoux
Black Water
Border Line
Chant
Monte Montgomery
Professor Porkchop & the Dirty Dishes

And there will be contests! Crawfish eating contests for all ages and a crawfish calling contest.

But I guess most of the people come for the food. Besides all the crawfish you would ever care to eat, there’s will be all kinds of mouth-watering delights of the Cajun variety and otherwise.

Check out the website for ticket details and a schedule of performers.

See ya there, cher!

Shreveport Homes Market Analysis, April 2009

Mon, 11 May 2009 15:31:56 -0500

Comparing the absorption rates for Shreveport and Bossier City single family homes, statistics show favorable numbers for sellers. There were 43 fewer homes sold this April compared to 2008. However, there were 239 fewer homes listed for sale this April compared to last April. What does this mean? Simply that there is a 6 month supply of homes on the market, and that figure has not changed to any significant degree since last year.

Market Activity in April -	2008	2009
Closed Transactions:	352	309
Average Homes Sold per Month:	29.33	25.75

Listings Currently Active on MLS:	2149	1910
Months of Supply on Market:	6.11	6.18

Average List Price:	$155,702	$152,626
Average Sales Price:	$155,703	$152,709
Average List to Sales Price:	100.00%	98.08%

As you can see, the average list and sales prices are lower this April, but look at the average list to sales price ratio. Homes are selling at 98% of the listed price. This means sellers aren't coming down much on their asking price.

What does this mean to you? It means we are in a seller's market. Especially in the $250,000 and lower price range. Homes that are move-in ready and priced right aren't staying on the market long. You must be ready to make an offer when you see one that fits your criteria. There's not a lot of time to ponder your decision as a few of my clients found out last week.

Time for Prime Bird Watching in Ellerbe Road Estates

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 13:47:29 -0500

This from a fellow bird lover in Ellerbe Road Estates neighborhood in Shreveport. He sent an email out to his neighbors generously alerting us to the migratory birds now passing through.

"I wanted to alert you that the beautiful Rubby-Throated Hummingbirds are now arriving in our neighborhood. I have a pair that started feeding 2 days ago.

I have had many Goldfinchs all year, but they are just now turning that beautiful golden yellow of their summer feathers.

The Housefinchs stay here year around. The males have red on their upper parts.

If you have a hummingbird feeder, it's time to put it out. You only need to put about 1/2 cup of sugar water in it now. Later as more Rubby-Throated arrive you will need more.

In about a month I will have 10-12 feeders out, each containing 2 cups of sugar water that will have to be refilled every day. I usually have about 200 hummers feeding on these feeders. As you walk down the south end of Sawgrass please feel free to stop and watch them feed and fight. The best time for watching is in the mornings and afternoons. They will be swarming like bees.

Other birds I see at my feeders and around the house are:
Mourning Doves
Red-bellied Woodpecker (they come for peanuts)
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (in the trees)
Downy Woodpecker (in the trees)
Blue Jay (they come for peanuts)
Chickadee*
Tufted Titmouse*
White-breasted Nuthatch
Carolina Wren
Blue Bird*
Robin** (on the ground)
Mockingbird** (on the roof)
Cedar Waxwing (saw one today with the Mockingbird chasing it)
Red Bird**
Rose-breasted Grosbeak (only saw him twice last year)
Indigo Bunting (only saw him once last year)
Dark-eyed Junco (sometimes called "snowbird")
Red-winged Blackbird (have not seen them for a few weeks)
Purple Martin (they visit my Purple Martin house but never have moved in)
English Sparrow (keeps trying to nest in my Purple Martin house)
Starling (keeps trying to nest in my Purple Martin house)

*=Nest in birdhouses in my back yard.
**=Nest in the trees around my house

He requested anonymity, which I'll respect, but I just want to thank him for taking the time to let us know what to look for. I'm off to find my field guide to North American birds!

Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City, LA Lands a Big One!

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 20:54:19 -0500

I was informed today by the Northwest Louisiana Association of Realtors that Barksdale Air Force Base has been named the headquarters of a major new command. This is good news for Barksdale and good news for the cities of Shreveport and Bossier.

The Global Strike Command will oversee the nation's nuclear-equipped bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles. Senator David Vitter and Representative John Fleming, both on the House and Senate Armed Services Committee, actively campaigned that the command is a natural fit for Barksdale since it already houses long range weapons systems, including the largest group of B-52s.

What does this mean for the folks of northwest Louisiana? The economic impact will be significant since bringing the Global Strike Command to Barksdale will mean upwards of 1000 Air Force personnel in permanent jobs. Also significant will be the economic stimulus created by the many temporary jobs during the construction phase.

Some people are nervous about having such a large arsenal of nuclear weapons right in our own backyard. What is not known by many who are new to the area, however, is that Barksdale has for decades played a role in the nation's nuclear weapons system. Somehow, as a girl growing up in Bossier City, I always knew that if Russia decided to strike, Barksdale would be one of the first targets. And somehow, I was strangely comforted by the fact that death would be instantaneous and painless (or so I believed).

Is the danger real? Yes, but so is getting hit by a car tomorrow. Is it any reason not to live here? Not at all. With almost 10,000 current military employees and multiples of that in family members and retirees, Barksdale Air Force Base has been and will continue to be an important integral part of Shreveport and Bossier City.

Ask any long time resident here, and they probably have some tie to the base. My own grandfather was employed by the construction company that turned the cotton fields into air fields. He guarded the money bags on payday and accompanied the boss on his rounds as he doled it out to the workers. He reportedly carried a pistol on his belt to ensure the money made it to the intended recipients. I don't guess that position will be posted for the construction of the new facility for the Global Strike Command!

First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 08:03:39 -0500

I've posted about this part of the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act before, but I like the way this fact sheet from the National Association of Home Builders describes the $8000 tax credit. So here's a second look at it.

2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Fact Sheet

Who is Eligible?

The $8,000 tax credit is available for first-time home buyers only.
The law defines "first-time home buyer" as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase.
All U.S. citizens who file taxes are eligible to participate in the program.

Payback Provisions

The tax credit is a true credit. It does not have to be repaid.
The only repayment requirement is if the home owner sold the home within three years after the purchase.

Income Limits

Home buyers who file as single or head-of-household taxpayers can claim the full $8,000 credit if their modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is less than $75,000.
For married couples filing a joint return, the income limit doubles to $150,000.
Single or head-of-household taxpayers who earn between $75,000 and $95,000 are eligible to receive a partial first-time home buyer tax credit.
Married couples who earn between $150,000 and $170,000 are eligible to receive a partial first-time home buyer tax credit.
The credit is not available for single taxpayers whose MAGI is greater than $95,000 and married couples with a MAGI that exceeds $170,000.

Effective Dates for the Tax Credit

First-time home buyers would receive an $8,000 tax credit for the purchase of any home on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.
To qualify, you must actually close on the sale of the home during this period.

Tax Credit is Refundable

A refundable credit means that if you pay less than $8,000 in federal income taxes, then the government will write you a check for the difference.
For example, if you owe $5,000 in federal income taxes, you would pay nothing to the IRS and receive a $3,000 payment from the government.
If you are due to receive a $1,000 tax refund from the government, your refund would grow to $9,000 ($1,000 plus $8,000 from the home buyer tax credit).
Buyers can take the tax credit on their 2008 or 2009 income tax return.

Types of Homes that Qualify for the Tax Credit

All homes, whether single-family, townhomes or condominium apartments will qualify, provided that the home will be used as a principal residence and the buyer has not owned a principal residence in the prior three years.
This also includes newly-constructed homes.

For more details on the tax credit, visit the Federal Housing Tax Credit website.

How Low Will They Go? Interest Rates on the Move

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 20:49:43 -0500

There is good news on the home front for those of you who have been trying to decide if now is the time to buy a house. In plain language, interest rates are expected to drop .25 to .5 percentage points in the next few days and to stay low. This comes on the heels of the news that the Federal Reserve will buy $750 billion more in mortgage-backed securities and $300 billion in long-term government bonds.

Unfortunately, this won't help homeowners facing foreclosure or who have no equity in their homes in order to refinance. It also won't be any help to buyers who don't have stellar credit scores (740+ to get the best rates) and 20% of the purchase price for a down payment.

Those it will help are homeowners who aren't upside down on their mortgage who want to refinance and buyers who have great credit and the required down payment. And don't forget about the $8,000 tax credit for first time home buyers. A savvy buyer can cash in on the low rates that will be here later this week, then file an amended federal tax return after their home purchase and pocket the net credit before the end of this year. Call me if you have questions about this.

Spring is in the air, the weather is getting warmer, and there are plenty of houses on the market. It's time to buy!

Who's Really Interested In Green Living?

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 17:23:22 -0600

Is going "green" a hard sell in your area? I know it is in mine, a state whose slogan is "Sportsman's Paradise". We truly are a paradise for all sorts of outdoor sports, and we have the requisite big trucks and SUVs needed to haul all the necessary gear and equipment around. So selling energy efficiency and green technology might be a harder sell around here than in other parts of the country. In fact, I've only ever seen one listing that touted the energy efficient aspects of the home.

Which is why I found Steve Miller's post so interesting. Seems there is a group of people within the general population who search out all things green. The term used for this group is Cultural Creatives. Read on to see what this could mean to your business.

Via Steve Miller REALTOR (Keller Williams Realty-Coeur d' Alene, North Idaho ):

Who really WANTS to Live Green anyway? Read on...

Just the other day I was at our local Realtor Association taking a CE course on Green Housing. This is a subject that I would naturally gravitate toward, regardless of the need for hours. Now, I have always figured that when attending any training event IF I come away with ONE PEARL, it was worth going. And, while this ‘overview' of the subject was very informative, one blessed pearl came to light that I didn't expect.

We had a discussion about the hypothetical ‘needs and wants' as they pertain to housing of the usual generational groups... you know, the Baby boomers, Generation X and Y.  This yielded the usual... location, size, efficiency etc. Then, just at the end of our class, the instructor revealed this new dynamic.  The light bulb was blinking in my head regarding this sub-group I had never heard of called "Cultural Creatives".  These people want the 'real thing' when it comes to Living Green, not all the trendy stuff.

Here are some typical attributes...

    1.)   Cultural Creatives are not typified by generational grouping.

    2.)   CC's are a Psychographic group based on values and behavior.

    3.)   Cultural Creatives are seriously concerned about the health of our planet.

    4.)   They tend toward holistic approaches, ie. health care, food, sustainability.

    5.)   These folks would prefer to buy green (not just the shade of) ie. Green homes

    6.)   There is a general rejection of 'overt' displays of materialism and status.

    7.)   They express dissatisfaction with large institutions and partisan politics.

    8.)   CC's are generally committed to spiritual and psychological development.

Do you tend to be an idealist? Are you someone who wants to put your values into action? Do you ever volunteer?  Do you have a special appreciation for authenticity and tend toward it yourself?  Are you a BIG PICTURE kind of person?

If you feel aligned with many of these attributes, you may just be a 'Cultural Creative' yourself and you're not alone. It is estimated that there are approximately 50 million adults of a like mind. Curiously, I felt like I never fit any of the generational labels nor am I inclined to ‘be' labeled. Yet, to my surprise, in this niche, I fit.  What about you?

For more information, check out Cultural Creative's Website.

Ellerbe Road Estates Neighborhood Association

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 22:05:53 -0600

I haven't posted much about Ellerbe Road Estates in southeast Shreveport. Perhaps that's because it's not gated, it's not new, and it's not high end. But it's a great neighborhood. In fact, we like it so much, we've lived here for 16 years now.

Ellerbe Road Estates was one of the first neighborhoods developed along Ellerbe Road. It's just south of the intersection with Flournoy Lucas Road. Because it's an older neighborhood and prices have come down a bit, we are seeing an influx of young families. I love seeing the little neighborhood boys gathering for a game of front yard football or catch. And moms out pusing a stroller or pulling a wagon with a smiling toddler. It's that kind of neighborhood.

Of course, people come and go, but several of our neighbors who were here when we moved in are still here. It's that kind of a place. People here would rather stay put and improve than go somewhere else. It's a peaceful neighborhood where people aren't in your business, but they are there to lend a hand if you need it. We watch out for each other.

And now I'm proud to announce that the Ellerbe Road Estates Neighborhood Association has its own website. That's always helpful to people considering buying here.

Here is a listing that is a good example of what homes are like in the older part of the neighborhood. I'll post more pictures of the neighborhood in a week or so when all the spring blooming trees are fully budded out.

293 Winterwood, Ellerbe Road Estates, Shreveport, LA is For Sale!

This is a welcoming 4 bedroom, 2 bath home with new paint in the newer neutral colors. The den has a cathedral ceiling, woodburning fireplace, and built-in bookcase. The master bath has a whirlpool tub and walk-in closets. It's just a great home in a great neighborhood. Offered at $193,000.

REALTOR®, MBA, ABR, SRS Main Contact #: 318-465-6746 Voice Mail #: 318-869-5894

Spring in Shreveport - Festivals and Happenings 2009

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:35:01 -0600

We have some great festivals in and around the Shreveport area. I've previously written about theRed River Revel. It rolls around every year at the beginning of October and in my mind is associated with cooler weather, food, and art.

In Shreveport when spring rolls around, you know it's time for the festivals to begin again. The season starts of with Mardi Gras parades and parties. That has come and gone for this year, but that doesn't mean all the fun is over. Here is a list of festivals coming up in Shreveport, Bossier City and other towns across northwest Louisiana. I hope to see you at a few of them!

Mardi Gras in Shreveport - Mardi Gras is officially over, but this link will take you to pictures from the various parades in the area if you want to see how Shreveport does Mardi Gras.

MARCH 7th

The Jonquil Jubilee - Jonquils (aka daffodils) are one of my favorite flowers and to see a wide sweep of them across a pasture or in a woodland setting is a sight to behold. There are many vendors at this festival as well as tours of historic homes in addition to viewing the daffodils.

APRIL 10th-11th

American Rose Center - Each spring the Gardens of the American Rose Center on the western edge of Shreveport hosts a Full Bloom Spring Celebration. If you love roses, this is the place to be.

APRIL 17th-26th

Holiday in Dixie - This is one of the best family-oriented festivals we have. And it has something for everyone. There's a treasure hunt, doo-dah parade, carnival, photography contests, military ball - you're bound to find a way to have fun.

MAY 2nd - 3rd

Cinco de Mayo Festival - A celebration of Hispanic culture in the Ark-la-tex with good food, chihuahua dog races, and dance contests!

MAY 9th-10th

Barksdale Air Force Base Air Show 2009
Defenders of Liberty

Show Time is at 10:00 a.m. With free admission and free parking, you can hardly go wrong spending the day at the air show. Just be sure to bring sunscreen. The show has something of interest to everyone. Performers include the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, Canadian Forces Snowbirds, Chilean Halcones, Greg Poe, Shockwave Jet Truck, E Team Skydivers, Vintage Warbirds, and a Sunday Mother's Day Concert by country music star, Aaron Tippin!

MAY 16th

8th Annual David Rice Memorial Angel Run - A good excuse to get ourdoors and get some exercise. Proceeds from this fun 5k walk/run benefits Holy Angels Residence facility for developmentally and mentally challenged children and adults.

MAY 21st - 24th

Mudbug Madness - Another excuse to eat!! For those of you who may not know, mudbugs are crawfish. That's right - crawfish, not crayfish. If you saw a picture of their houses, you'd know why we call them mudbugs. But I digress.

This is always a fun festival with plenty to eat and plenty of Cajun music and dancing. There are even crawfish eating contests in several age categories (just to make it fair).

Shreveport and the rest of northwest Louisiana is an interesting mixture of Texas and Cajun influences, and our festivals and culture reflect this unique blend. Spring is a great time to get out and soak it all in before the dog days of summer are upon us.

New tax incentives for Old Homes

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:39:54 -0600

Good news for those of us interested in increasing the energy efficiency of our existing homes - you don't have to build a new one to get the new tax incentives. Read Dena's post below to find out more.

Via Dena Stevens ~ Ecobroker ~So. Colorado Realtor (Colorado Western Real Estate):

Save the planet by making an old home energy efficient

Better tax credits for increasing the energy efficiency of your existing home. WOW that makes sense. Previously there was a $200 cap on replacement windows. Now it is $1500 tax credit for all energy efficient projects. Don't get me wrong I love the idea of building more energy efficient homes; it makes great sense that as we build new homes we build them to ever increasing standards that match the new technology available. However, retrofitting an existing home with energy efficient features is much more carbon and cost efficient than adding requirements to new housing.

"These new tax credits are another way that the home building industry can combat the potential effects of global climate change by encouraging home owners to make energy-efficient improvements to their homes," said Miedema. A 2008 California study showed that homes built before 1983 were responsible for 70% of the greenhouse gas emissions related to single-family envelope energy consumption. The study also found that spending $10,000 to retrofit a 1960s home could save 8.5 tons of carbon at a cost of $588 to $1,176 per ton, depending on existing tax credits and incentives. By comparison, increasing the energy efficiency of a new home 35% over current state requirements would cost about $5,000 and would reduce emissions by 1.1 tons at a cost of $4,545 per ton. The bottom line is that retrofitting existing homes with energy efficient features is four to eight times more carbon- and cost-efficient than adding further energy-efficiency requirements to new housing, the study showed.
Taken from the Nations Building News February 16, 2009 found on www.nahb.org

A word of caution is needed, though, as not all E-star rated products will qualify for the new tax credits. The standards have been increased so consumers need to do some research and make sure that their contractor is well informed. These new standards have just been put in place and not everyone including industry professionals will be aware of the new stricter standards. Consumers should always do some research before investing in products for their home, but now it is more imperative than ever before. The window industry is reeling over this news, there are many very high quality windows that will not meet the new criteria and some not so great windows that do. Shgc and U-factors are just part of the story in an efficient window. However, I believe the overall wisdom of making an older home more efficient is the best thing we can do for the environment, our personal comfort and for our pocket books. Realtors can market either a homes existing improvements or the tax credits for making improvements. Every little bit helps in these tough economic times.

Alternative energy systems such as Solar, wind and geothermal have their own tax credits that have been extended to the year 2016. I hope that we will see a continued increase in smart policies that will encourage energy efficiency and new technologies. Below are some websites that have more information.

Contributed by Pamela Simmons
www.alliedbuilding.com

www.NAHB.org
http://www.energystar.gov
http:/// www.seia.org
www.irs.gov

Who Qualifies as a First Time Home Buyer?

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:23:52 -0600

Ken Cook, gives a good explanation of who qualifies as a first time home buyer. Good to know now that the $8,000 tax credit is drawing some interested lookers.

Via Ken Cook - Lender - Investor Specialist:

On one of my blogs the traffic logs keep showing a certain search string containing something similar to "who qualifies as a first time home buyer". There is a remote possibility you, the reader, may not know why this is a popular question. If so the short answer is: Congress just raised the first time home buyer tax credit from $7,500 to $8,000 and extended the qualifying purchase period to homes purchased between January 1 and December 1 of this year (2009).

There are literally thousands of blogs and articles dedicated to explaining the changes so this one deals with this one question only. Who qualifies as a first time home buyer? The answer is dependent on a couple of conditions so the explanation breaks those apart:

If the buyer is single they cannot have owned a primary residence within the last 36 months. This means they cannot have been on title in the last 36 months even if they are a co owner, buyer or signor.

If the buyer is married they nor their spouse may have owned a primary residence in the last 36 months. Investment properties and second homes do not count against them.

Here's the best thing to do if you live in Georgia or Florida and you think you may be a first time home buyer then call me at 866-946-0120 extension 101 or email me at ken AT novationmortgage.com

Learn to build your social media network - one hour weekly with fantastic guests. Join me and my co-host Jason Crouch every Tuesday at noon eastern http://budurl.com/jckc - become a Facebook fan at http://budurl.com/twittertuesday

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Stranger Entering Shreveport Homes for Sale

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:37:56 -0600

Stranger Alert!

I don't want to scare anyone, but want to make everyone aware that there is a man who has been entering homes in Shreveport that have For Sale signs in the front yard. He was spotted at several homes Sunday afternoon in the South Highlands neighborhood.

He actually parked in the garage and entered one home. The teenage daughter was there, but fortunately so was the dog and the man left. He was next seen in the back yard of another home that is for sale.

Police have been notified of both instances. Please, if your house is on the market, be sure to lock your doors and keep your garage door down when you're at home. This is a good practice for everyone, but this guy seems to be targeting houses with a For Sale sign in the yard.

I would appreciate it if you would pass this along to anyone you know whose house is for sale. Thanks!

Let's all be safe,

REALTOR®, MBA, ABR, SRS

Main Contact #: 318-465-6746
Voice Mail #: 318-869-5894

Affiliated with Coldwell Banker J Wesley Dowling & Assoc. LLC, 8805 Line Ave, Shreveport, LA 71106, 318-861-2461. All views and opinions reflect those of the author and have not been viewed or endorsed by Coldwell Banker Dowling.

Online Petition to Louisiana Lawmakers to Raise Homestead Exemption

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 08:33:05 -0600

Every Louisiana real estate-related professional should reblog John W. Walters' post about the homestead exemption. Please click through his link below to sign the petition. And put a post about it on your own blog. If enough voices are heard, we can get it changed!

Via John W Walters Slidell LA Homes for Sale Slidell Louisiana Homes (7824 Real Estate of Louisiana,LLC):

I don't know how many of my fellow citizens received or saw their 2008 property tax bill this year. I live in St. Tammany and I assure you mine went up 300% this year. Before hurricane Katrina I paid a little over $800. My new bill is now over $2200. In this economy where every nickel counts the greedy hand of government wants more of my hard earned dollars.

The homestead exemption for Louisiana is currently $75,000. If they had indexed this to inflation it would be around $150,000. So whats happening is an unfair burden is falling on the working people. My parents are over 65 and they pay only $200 a year. I also don't want to hear business are going to pay an unfair share. A business is just going to pass the cost on to us. At least this way it will get spread out more evenly. Here is a link to the online petition. Please go and sign your name today.

Stimulus Package Passes Senate Vote - Feb. 2009

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 13:14:39 -0600

In an effort to encourage first-time home buyers to jump off the fence and begin looking for a home, the recently passed “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009” made some changes to the tax credit for this group. The bill, which was signed into law yesterday, gives a maximum $8,000 tax credit to first-time home buyers when they purchase a home as their principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.

This is a true tax credit in that it does not have to be repaid unless the owners sell before three years. Most of the mechanics of the credit will be the same as under the 2008 rules: the credit will be claimed on a tax return to reduce the purchaser's income tax liability. If any credit amount remains unused, then the unused amount will be refunded as a check to the purchaser. This chart by the National Association of REALTORS®, Major Modifications to Tax Credit shows the difference between the earlier credit and the current one.

It's understood that people who have never bought a home are eligible for this incentive. What you may not realize is that anyone who has not owned a home for the past three years is also considered a first-time home buyer and also qualifies for this tax credit when they buy a home this year. Who do you know that falls into this category - you? an adult child who has returned home? someone who divorced 3 years ago and is renting? If you know anyone who would qualify as a first-time home buyer, please let them know about this tax credit. It could mean the difference between staying where they are now and owning their own home.

Never Heard of an FHA 203(K) Loan? This Might Be For You!

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:20:19 -0600

Thanks to Jason Sardi for this education about FHA 203(K) loans. Although Shreveport real estate hasn't experience as many foreclosures as other parts of the nation, we do have our share. This loan program makes it possible for more buyers to consider purchasing one of these homes.

When You Find The "Almost" Perfect House, But Want To Make It Home.

This should lead it off quite nicely:)

Back in my early days of lending, I recall quite vividly the very first Rehab Loan I did. While I did some legwork in actually knowing the ropes of that particular product before advertising the bejesus out of a very niche loan, I still was caught like a reindeer in some oncoming car's speeding headlights when trying to get them closed in a streamlined sort of fashion. And then, I had it mastered. As my particular luck would have it, most of those programs disappeared shortly thereafter.

The echoes in the back of my head rang of a long-lost product I had only heard about and most of what I heard were borderline horror stories. The FHA 203(K) loan reared its mysterious head and stared me in my wide-eyed glance. I gotta admit, there was major hesitation on my part in even wanting to get involved in such a misunderstood product. I knew little about it and wanted to concentrate more on the Conventional sort of stuff that I grew up with in the industry... at least at that point. Hey, of course I want to corner the market, but not at the risk of looking like an incompetent SOB at the end of the day.

Then, I encountered experts in that very product. I figured, let's roll repair.

After doing more homework than my combined High School & College Education would vouch that I did back in the day, I chose to go after a market that just may make a dent in not only enhancing the housing market... but the very neighborhoods we live in.

This is just a taste of the FHA 203(K) Renovation Loan!

Add a deck or porch, makes for one heck of a Summertime BBQ.
Upgrade the electrical system and avoid reading overdue utility bills under candlelight.
Modernize the kitchen and watch the The Food Channel in a comparable stadium.
Replace a furnace and heck, it's a furnace. You really don't want that entity breaking down anytime soon!
Paint the exterior and/or interior. Yours could be the only lavender house in the neighborhood:)
Install new carpeting. There's nothing like getting rid of stained residue from a German Shepard you never owned.
Remodel a bathroom. Hey, might as well let loose of your naked body in comfortable surroundings!
Replace roofing and/or siding. There were 58 mile per hour winds in Pennsylvania today, that stuff may come in handy.
Refinish wood floors. That's a big selling point for yours truly. I adore wood floors and have an aggressive amount of ShamWow merchandise to prove it:)

Program Features:

Low down payment
Buy and remodel a home with one mortgage! You can finance the purchase plus the cost of the improvements with one monthly mortgage payment.
At least $5,000 in repairs needed to qualify for the 203(K) Loan.
They can be used for owner occupied 1-4 unit family dwellings.
Closing takes place before the improvements/repairs are made.
Money for the repairs and renovations is held in an escrow account and paid out after each phase of work is completed, inspected and approved.
By the way, they are fixed rates!

Consider this the teaser post to the taste buds of home renovation lending. Yup, I'm your proverbial appetizer.

Jason Sardi

Mortgage Consultant

1-866-262-8720 ext. 229

jsardi@ihmci.com

Located at our Allentown, Pennsylvania office. Pennsylvania Based Mortgage Banker/Broker whose area of service include PA, NJ, NY, CT, DE, MD, VA, SC, FL, MI and IN.

Shreveport Homes Market Report - January 2008/2009

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 20:59:36 -0600

Shreveport Homes Sales Statistics for January 2008/2009

The table below compares the details of the homes sold in January for the Shreveport, Bossier City market. It includes data for single family homes.

January Statistics	2008	2009	% Change
Number of Homes Sold	266	206	-23%
Average Home Price	$149,712	$134,992	-10%
Average Home Price per SF	$81.81	$71.37	-13%
Average Days on Market	53	59	11%
Average Sale Price to List Price Ratio	96%	89%	-7%

The source for the Shreveport home sales statistics is the Northwest Louisiana Association of Realtors MLS, Inc on 02/09/2009. This information is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed.

Shreveport Real Estate Market - January 2009

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 20:07:58 -0600

January 2009 Absorption Rates - Residential Sales

Inventory of residential housing is down in the Shreveport market, but unfortunately, so are sales. Below I've shown the listing and sales figures of single family homes for the Shreveport area for January 2009.

In total, there are 1790 homes for sale in Shreveport, Bossier City and surrounding areas. Last month only 206 homes actually sold. That's over an 8 1/2 month supply of homes if no more homes come on the market, however, in January, 600 homes came on the market.

Currently there are 105 homes above $400,001 for sale in Shreveport/Bossier. Last month only 2 homes actually sold in this price range. That's over a 52 1/2 month supply of homes if no more homes come on the market. Last month 21 homes came on the market in this price range.

Currently there are 272 homes priced between $250,001 and $400,000 for sale. Last month only 17 homes actually sold in this price range. That's a 16 month supply of homes if no more homes come on the market. Last month 83 homes came on the market in this price range.

Currently there are 541 homes priced between $150,001 and $250,000 for sale. Last month only 71 homes actually sold in this price range. That's over a 7 1/2 month supply of homes if no more homes come on the market. Last month 206 homes came on the market in this price range.

Currently there are 872 homes priced under $150,000 for sale in Shreveport/Bossier. Last month 116 homes actually sold in this price range. That's a 7 1/2 month supply of homes if no more homes come on the market. Last month 290 homes came on the market in this price range.

Source Northwest Louisiana Association of Realtors MLS, Inc 02/09/09. This information is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed.

HISMs Strike Again! (For Women Only ;-) )

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 18:47:24 -0600

This really should probably be a dually-authored post, since my sister, Bayou Woman, and I are co-discoverers of this malady. Well, we came up with the acronym anyway. Before I tell you what the acronym stands for and to help you determine if you also suffer from this blight on humanity, see if any of this sounds familiar.

Scenario 1 - Laundry time! I hear the buzzer on the washer go off and dutifully pad into the laundry room to transfer the clothes to the dryer. Wait, I have to put the clothes from the dryer into the laundry basket first. There. With dryer door ajar so that I can efficiently toss the wet clothes in with one deft motion, I raise the lid of the washer only to find it - EMPTY! I had washed a whole load of nothing! I had gone through the motions, put the detergent in, closed the lid, turned it on, but I had forgotten to put any clothes in.

I was so embarrassed I didn't tell anyone for a long time. What was happening to me?

Scenario 2 - "It's a beautiful day today," I thought to myself as I crossed the parking lot. I was glad to have gotten some errands behind me. I was feeling pretty pleased with myself as I walked up to the passenger side door and opened it to get in. That's when I realized I was alone. I had come shopping by myself; there was nobody with me. As nonchalantly as possible, I closed the door and surreptitiously glanced around as I walked around the back of the car to get in on the driver's side. Fortunately, there were few shoppers out that day, but I felt like a complete idiot.

Scenario 3 - Now this one happens all the time in one variation or another: I go into the laundry room where the deep freeze is to get something out to thaw for dinner. As I walk in I see that the clothes have finished drying, so I begin folding them and hanging them up. As I take towels to put in the hall bathroom, I notice that the counter needs to be straightened. That done, I pop into the office to quickly check my email and you know where that leads. Finally back in the laundry room to finish up, I suddenly remember my original purpose in coming in there in the first place - to take something out for dinner.

I do this one all the time except that I don't always remember the original task that I had intended to do.

Does any of this sound familiar to anyone? Just the other morning, as I was getting ready for the day (I had decided to work from home), something interrupted me, and I forgot to put on my makeup. It wasn't until that afternoon when I went to get my jacket from the closet, and I passed through the bathroom, that I realized I didn't have any makeup on! And the only reason I knew that was because my eye shadow was laying on the vanity counter just waiting for me. I glanced in the mirror and sure enough. No makeup. I am still puzzled as to why I didn't put it on. I simply can't remember.

So, what do Bayou Woman and I call these lapses of memory? I'm sure you've all heard the phrase "senior moments"? Well, HISMs are Hormonally-Induced Senior Moments. And we named them this because hormones get wacky as you approach middle age, and that's all we could deduce might be causing such memory gaffes. What other explanation could there be?

We laugh, Bayou Woman and I, because it's better than crying or worrying about it. But I wonder sometimes if it's not the effects of living life today in a society that is wound just a little too tight. The scary thing about HISMs is that you never know when you'll have another one. They can't be anticipated because you don't realize they happen until they've happened.

We've had many HISM laughs over the years. How about you? Experience any HISMS lately and want to share?

Acadiana Place Home Owners Association ~ Shreveport, Louisiana

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 13:37:48 -0600

In all my writing about neighborhoods in Shreveport, I always try to provide information about the home owners association. The best way to do this is to give the website address. Until recently, I could find nothing online for Shreveport's gated community of Acadiana Place.

Well, I'm happy to report that through a Google alert, I now have the URL the Acadiana Place Home Owners Association.

The is the address for the Home Page.

Click on this link to view the members of the board of directors.

Go here if you would like to contact the association.

Ask questions, take a look at the neighborhood covenants, and go visit! It's a great neighborhood close to just about everything.

More People Are Searching For Shreveport Homes For Sale Online

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 20:45:14 -0600

Realtor.com released some interesting statistics for December 2008. The data show the most-searched real estate markets in the United States ranked in order of popularity, year-over-year and month-over-month percentage increases.

I want to give a heads up to all homeowners in Shreveport and Bossier City who are thinking of selling their home. The month-over-month increase in online searches for this area was 22.6%. This means that close to 25% more people searched online for homes for sale in Shreveport this December compared to last December.

According to the National Association of Realtors®, 80% of home searches nationwide begin on the internet. This is significant information for sellers.

How so? It simply means that the agent you select to list your home must know how to effectively market homes online. "But don't all agents do that?", you ask. And the answer is yes and no.

The broker that an agent works for may automatically send all their listings to some online real estate websites. An internet savvy Realtor® won't settle for that. They will make sure that their listings are found everywhere on the world wide web - even the first page of Google.

My Premier Home Marketing Program™, esnures that homes that I list are found on more than 30 real estate marketing websites. That means local, national, and international exposure for my listings. Make sure any agent you work with does the same.

Wordless Wednesday - JOY!

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 18:03:11 -0600

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You're at Home with Heather
Shreveport and Bossier City, Louisiana Real Estate

Shreveport Home Connection
Coldwell Banker J. Wesley Dowling & Assoc. LLC

Serving your real estate needs in Shreveport, Bossier City, Benton, Haughton, Keithville, Stonewall, Blanchard, and Barksdale

Highlighting the southeast Shreveport neigborhoods of Twelve Oaks, Acadiana Place, Norris Ferry Landing, Hidden Oaks, the Leonard Road Area, Norris Ferry Crossing, St. Charles Place, and Ellerbe Road Estates

Licensed Realtor® in Louisiana. Contact me at 318-465-6746 to list or buy a home.

Ten Things to Do and See in Shreveport, LA

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 08:15:55 -0600

Here is a list of ten cool places to go when you're visiting Shreveport or if you live here and are looking for something to do. I've put them in no particular order.

1. Sci-Port Discovery Science Center and IMax Theater The kids love this one, but it has something for everyone.

2. Yogie and Friends Wild Cat Sanctuary Get up close and personal with lions and tigers and panthers - no bears!

3. Chimp Haven A family of chimps retired from the scientific research sector.

4. Water Town Shreveport's own water park.

5. R.W. Norton Art Gallery A unique art museum with rotating exhibits and absolutely beautiful gardens with walking paths.

6. The Strand Theater A true Shreveport icon.

7. Cross Lake A fishing, skiing, sailing mecca in north Shreveport.

8. Louisiana Boardwalk Across the river in Bossier City, the boardwalk has shops to interest everyone, eating, people watching, shopping, trolley riding, movie watching, bowling, eating, and did I say shopping?

9. Gardens of the American Rose Center Acres and acres of roses and other flowers.

10. Barksdale Air Force Base Museum The 8th Air Force Museum tells the air force story and features an airplane exhibit.

All of these places can be visited year-round, so if you're in Shreveport or Bossier City or somewhere close by, plan a visit. You'll have plenty to do.

See this list of My Top Ten Favorite Local Restaurants for places to dine while you're here.